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Self-poisoning with Colchicum autumnale L. flowers
V C Danel1, J F Wiart, G A Hardy
1Département Pluridisciplinaire de Médecine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Grenoble, France. VDanel@chu-grenoble.fr
Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|August 31, 2001
Summary
A man experienced severe symptoms after ingesting autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale L.) flowers. Toxicological analysis confirmed colchicine poisoning, highlighting the plant's toxicity and the need for supportive care in such cases.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Botany
Background:
- Colchicum autumnale L. (autumn crocus) is a plant known for its toxic properties.
- Ingestion of autumn crocus can lead to significant gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms.
- Accurate toxicological confirmation is crucial for managing plant-induced poisonings.
Observation:
- A 44-year-old male presented with nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain approximately 2 hours post-ingestion of 40 Colchicum autumnale flowers.
- Diarrhea was observed 14 hours after ingestion; however, hematological values remained within normal limits.
- The patient's intoxication was confirmed via high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS).
Findings:
- Maximal plasma colchicine concentration was 4.34 ng/mL at 13 hours post-ingestion.
- Maximal erythrocyte colchicine concentration reached 5.43 ng/mL at 16 hours post-ingestion.
- Supportive treatment was administered, leading to a favorable outcome for the patient.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potent toxicity of Colchicum autumnale L. and the importance of prompt medical evaluation.
- Confirmed toxicological analysis aids in understanding colchicine pharmacokinetics during poisoning events.
- Effective supportive care can lead to positive outcomes even in symptomatic cases of autumn crocus poisoning.